The quick guide to fall vaccines and when you should get them

Key Points:

• Despite challenges posed by anti-vaccine influences under Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the 2024 fall vaccine rollout for flu, COVID-19, and RSV is expected to proceed relatively smoothly, with updated vaccines approved and arriving at pharmacies.
• The CDC’s vaccine advisory committee remains nonfunctional due to a federal court ruling invalidating recent appointments, but major medical organizations have stepped in to provide evidence-based vaccine recommendations and maintain insurance coverage through 2027.
• Flu vaccine recommendations include universal vaccination for children 6 months and older and adults, with a new mRNA flu vaccine (Moderna’s mFlusiva) approved for adults 50+, though its availability and insurance coverage remain uncertain.
• COVID-19 vaccines are officially recommended for adults 65+ and high-risk individuals 6 months to 64 years, but pharmacies continue to allow self-attestation for vaccination in most states despite the lack of updated federal guidance.
• RSV vaccine is recommended for adults 75+, high-risk adults 50-74, and pregnant people between 32-36 weeks gestation during RSV season (now extended through March 1), with monoclonal antibody protection advised for infants lacking maternal vaccine protection.